duval county public records overview and access guide

What you can find

In Jacksonville and across Duval County, public records help residents, journalists, and businesses verify facts, track property history, and follow local decisions. These files are generally open under Florida’s strong Sunshine laws, with limited exceptions for privacy and security.

• Property and tax rolls, deeds, and parcel maps
• Court dockets, judgments, and recorded documents
• Official records such as liens, mortgages, and plats
• Licenses and permits for building or zoning activity
• Meetings agendas, minutes, and ordinances

How to search effectively

Start with exact names or parcel numbers, then broaden by date ranges or document type. If a result seems missing, try spelling variants, abbreviations, or a wildcard. Many departments offer free index searches, with modest fees for certified copies or extensive staff time.

Request tips and timelines

Be specific about the records you need, include date boundaries, and note preferred format (digital or paper). Agencies must respond promptly, but complex requests can take longer due to review and redaction of exempt information.

Bottom line: With clear details and a little patience, Duval County’s systems make it straightforward to locate trustworthy information and document your findings.